Several A’s in mix for spots on World Baseball Classic rosters
This story was excerpted from Martín Gallegos’ A’s Beat publication. To learn the total publication, click on right here. And subscribe to get it repeatedly in your inbox.
OAKLAND — The World Baseball Classic is just a few months away, and the A’s may need illustration from a number of international locations within the occasion.
Infielder Jordan Diaz is listed on the preliminary roster for Team Colombia, whereas infielder Zack Gelof is on Team Israel’s preliminary roster and outfielder Denzel Clarke is on Team Canada’s. On the pitching aspect, right-hander Adrián Martínez is included on Team Mexico’s preliminary 50-man roster. Final 30-man rosters will likely be launched on Feb. 7, then event play begins March 8.
Here’s a better take a look at every potential participant for the A’s within the 2023 Classic:
Diaz, Oakland’s No. 9 prospect, discovered fast success in opposition to Major League pitching upon becoming a member of the A’s on the finish of final season.
The infielder appeared in 15 video games and hit .265 with three doubles whereas receiving most of his taking part in time at second base.
What the A’s needed to say: “The conversation with Jordan was, ‘Hey, you got here pretty quickly. There’s some things we want you to address to be able to come to Spring Training and earn another opportunity to have impact.’ I think that message was heard. I think Jordan is doing the right things in training this offseason to show up and compete at second and even possibly third base. Just fine-tuning and working on his body. We feel he would benefit from being a little leaner and working on foot speed.” — supervisor Mark Kotsay
The A’s No. 3 prospect and the No. 94 general prospect per MLB Pipeline, Gelof seems near being prepared for his arrival to the large leagues. The solely query could be what place awaits him in Oakland.
Seeking further work within the Arizona Fall League after a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder compelled him to overlook time through the common season, Gelof impressed the A’s together with his capability to deal with second base frequently whereas taking part in for the Mesa Solar Sox.
What the A’s needed to say: “Right now, we predict [second base] is his finest spot. I wouldn’t rule out spending extra time at third base. He ran out to middle discipline for a sport in the course of the yr, so he’s a very good athlete. I feel we’re actually pleased with the progress he made offensively this yr and wish to preserve his capability to suit someplace open.” — common supervisor David Forst
Clarke additionally joined Gelof for further reps within the Arizona Fall League.
What the A’s needed to say: “Lawrence Butler, Denzel Clarke and Zack Gelof really opened up some eyes [in the AFL] in what they were able to accomplish. … To get a look at that was great. To have conversations with them and make them aware that there’s a lot of opportunity in this organization to have an impact quickly. They’re aware of it. They’re young and got a little ways to go, but it’s always nice to see talent like that and know that’s going to be part of the future.” — Kotsay
ADRIÁN MARTÍNEZ (MEXICO)
Martínez went by highs and lows as a rookie in 2022, however he confirmed flashes of promise by his 12 begins with Oakland — notably when his nasty changeup was working and was in a position to make opposing hitters look foolish at instances.
He will enter Spring Training within the combine for a beginning rotation spot.
What the A’s needed to say: “He’s got a plus changeup that really helps him out. Good fastball that he can move around and a developing breaking ball. When he puts those all together and learns how to pitch with them, this guy has a good ceiling for himself. … He knows the adjustments he’s supposed to make. This offseason is huge for him because it’s hard to make those adjustments during the season. This offseason will be a really telling tale to where he’s going to be at.” — A’s pitching coach Scott Emerson
